Marilyn Ann Denton

Marilyn Ann Denton, née Carstens, was born September 11, 1937, in Roundup, Montana, to parents Martin and Alice Carstens. She passed away in Phoenix, Arizona, on April 16, 2026, following a battle with dementia, at the age of 88. Marilyn was a resident of Surprise, Arizona.

Marilyn attended and graduated high school in Mount Vernon, Washington. She continued her education at Skagit Community College and went to Washington State University—an example of the steady purpose that marked her life and the quiet encouragement she so often offered to others.

In her work and service to her community, Marilyn was a natural organizer, helping gather funding for education and supporting the structure of various school projects. In these efforts, many experienced her patient presence, her kind-hearted manner, and a generosity that asked for no recognition.

On November 11, 1960, Marilyn married the love of her life, William “Bill” Denton, in San Diego, California. Together they built a devoted marriage of 65 years and welcomed their only child, daughter Jennifer L. Kanzler, née Denton. In the care she gave to those closest to her, Marilyn was deeply beloved, and her steady example remained quietly inspirational to family and friends alike.

Marilyn was an accomplished artist who worked primarily in oils, creating paintings that were awe striking. She also loved to travel, both domestically and internationally, approaching the world with an appreciative eye and an open heart. She was also an expert at sudoku, a pursuit that reflected her focus and patient determination.

Marilyn was preceded in death by her parents, Martin W. Carstens and Alice H. Carstens, née Burdick; her daughter, Jennifer L. Kanzler, née Denton; and her brother, Douglass M. Carstens. She is survived by her husband of 65 years, William H. Denton; her brother, James B. Carstens; and the family, friends, and associates who had the privilege to know and love her.

The family extends special thanks to Hospice of the Valley for their aid and comfort at the end of Marilyn’s life.

A memorial in honor of Marilyn will be announced soon by the family.